Abandoned Dog Once Called 'Too Loud' Becomes Hero, Saves Monk From Bear Attack

June 19, 2025

Today's uplifting news story comes from Niigata, Japan.

In a remarkable story of second chances and courage, a Buddhist monk in Japan credits his adopted dog with saving his life after an unexpected encounter with a bear.

rescued dog saves monk from bear attack
Credit: TeNY Niigata Ichiban News

Tougen Yoshihara, the abbot of the historic Youkoku Temple in Gosen City, was walking his one-year-old beagle, Chico, in the woods near the temple on May 29 when a bear suddenly appeared on the path. The bear shocked Yoshihara, who had never experienced anything like it before.

In his attempt to flee, Yoshihara stumbled and dislocated his shoulder. But before the bear could come any closer, Chico sprang into action. Barking furiously, the once-abandoned dog charged at the bear, chasing it away into the forest and preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.

Chico had previously been returned to a kennel for being “too loud”—a trait that turned out to be life-saving. Yoshihara adopted him and gave him a loving home, never imagining that the pup would one day be his protector.

Now safe and recovering, Yoshihara calls Chico his “savior” and let the brave dog sleep by his side that night.

“He saved my life,” the monk said.